During times of difficulty and danger we are all faced with a choice…to run towards the danger or away from it?

Leaders are typically motivated by one of two things: rewards or service. During tough times the former often shy away from difficulty and danger, opting for self-preservation, while the latter think of others first and run toward the danger.

Great leaders like first responders and other patriots are refined and defined during times of stress, uncertainty, difficulty, and danger. They are usually found to be the ones running towards a challenging situation with courage in spite of any fear or inferiority they may be feeling. 

Goldsmiths have known the secret to refining pure gold for a long time…simply expose it to a blazing fire and the impurities naturally separate from the gold. In a similar manner, difficult situations, like blazing fires, have a way of refining leaders.

When the danger passes the kind of leader we are will be evident to all. Our actions during times of danger will refine us and the impact of our future actions will be forever affected, either positively or negatively.

Leadership is a choice. How will you respond during difficult situations? Will you be frozen by fear or run away to protect yourself? Or, will you rise to the occasion and run towards the danger and be forever changed by it?

Herb Mast is a Leadership Coach and Employee Engagement Specialist. Learn how he can assist you in implementing the principles and concepts presented here.